Livestock

Farrowing Free-Systems and Welfare for Sows

Farrowing crates prevent sows from performing natural mothering behaviours. Alternative farrowing systems represent a major welfare advance for sows and piglets.

Key Facts

Over 60% of EU sows are confined in farrowing crates during parturition and lactation
Farrowing crates prevent sow from turning around, nest-building, or nursing naturally
Sows show significant distress behaviours when crated during the nest-building period
Alternative free farrowing systems achieve comparable piglet mortality with better sow welfare
Denmark and the Netherlands are leading EU transition away from farrowing crates

Welfare Considerations

Farrowing crates are designed to prevent piglet crushing but impose severe behavioural restrictions on sows. The motivation to build nests before parturition is one of the strongest drives in pigs, and its frustration causes intense distress measurable through cortisol and stereotypic rooting on crate bars. Swinging crate systems and pen farrowing with creep areas can achieve comparable piglet survival while restoring sow welfare substantially.

What You Can Do

Choose RSPCA Assured or free-farrowing pork products
Support campaigns for mandatory UK phase-out of farrowing crates
Ask supermarkets about their farrowing crate-free sourcing timelines
Donate to Compassion in World Farming farrowing reform campaigns